Bezier Curves

remus · 15 Mar 2008, 20:04

Does anyone know of a good and easy way of accurately reproducing bezier curves in the real world?

Im pretty certain its not possible unless you print a template or something, but then i dont know much aobut the whole thing, so ideas please...

thanks

TIG · 15 Mar 2008, 22:07

I don't think there's a "string 'n' pin" method like ellipses or circles... Youbcan make 'co-ordinates' of points on the curve so that someone with a suitable bit of survey/EDM equipment can plot the points on site... or if it's small sized then make a full-size template on paper to trace over.

What's the scale of this 'bezier' ?

remus · 15 Mar 2008, 22:09

No scale really, it was more out of curiosity than anything.

I have had to do it once before, but it wasnt a very crucial use, and i just did it by free handing the curve onto the piece of wood, kind of guessing it form a print out i ahd in front of me.

jeff hammond · 16 Mar 2008, 00:26

i've done it before - using the method TIG described.. plot a bunch of points then connect them with a batten (1/8" masonite in my case).. overall size was ~4' x 16' aiming for +/- 1/8".. worked out well..

gata · 16 Mar 2008, 07:20

Adjustable French and ship curves in many lengths work well http://www.hoylegrips.com/rulers.htm if you want something other than a flexible stick. And a locking curve http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?FamilyID=20439 . Things like that are more useful than sticks to layout groin vault beams to fit against a vaulted ceiling of a hallway.

remus · 16 Mar 2008, 17:42

Cheers guys, seems liek theres no amgic method for doing this, but your suggestions all sound like decent ways of getting it done. Thanks again.