Changing a 3D shape

kellenraid

I made a complex 3D shape using Curviloft using four rails made of F-splines. It is just the kind of "model" that I needed SU for. But now I would like to make small changes in this shape ie higher in one portion, lower in another, shorter in overall length.
The shape was generated by using 4 rails; to do the above

is it possible to somehow obtain more cross-sectional rails from this model, change them, then use Curviloft to re-generate the shape? Or...
is there another way to change the shape using a push-pull or something like it?

Dave R

You might be able to modify it the way you want using Vertex Tools and/or Artisan. You could make sections using cutting planes and Intersect Faces or maybe use TIGs Slicer plugin. Once you've got those sections you could certainly modify them and then use them to create a new surface with Curviloft. The right option will probably depend on the actual shape and the exact changes you need to make.

kellenraid

I really appreciate the answer to my question. Again going back to curviloft, my rails complete the surface, and again, it looks great. The tutorials show that there are ancillary rails created before the skin is created. Is there a way to select one of these intermediate rails? If so, I could then modify it, and my life would be complete.

Just because one is paranoid doesn't mean they are not after you.

Box

Jim, it would help if you post an image of what you are doing. There are many ways to modify shapes and various different tools even within curviloft, so it's a bit hard to give you a specific answer.

pbacot

You can choose the Curviloft menu item "generate the junction edges (no face)" that gives you just the ancillary rails and your original rails. Then modify a rail and run curviloft again. Maybe that will work for you.