Trouble with complex curves

[Topper]

Ok, I need to define some complex cross sections for an a swept blend. The sections are polylines made up of about 100 pts, and are simply connected. The problem is I do not want to enter all the points and dimension all the points. If I import them as a DXF, are they automatically dimensioned?


The original curves are defined by a series of 4 parametric equations based on 1 parameter, so if I can define the curve by equation I could try that too.


Anyone have any thoughts on this?Or am I stuck dimensioning all the points in the section and splining them? I have successfully generated these profiles in PRO/E before, but that was when they had the 'Create Datum Curve From File' option in older versions. It did not leave me with much flexibility once the section was created, it worked.


Realistically, I would like this to be a flexible design, since we are going to do some shape optimization, but if it has to be rigid,I can take that for now.


Any help would be appreciated.


Thanks!

 

[design-engine]

This is a difficult call without seeing the form you trying to create. Although the urge might be to bring in exact points with a spline (or polyline) the is often other techniques that will garnish the form you are looking for especially if the product is an ergonomic form or a plastic housing.

On the other hand if you are creating a turbine blade or a specific airfoil form then the idea of hundreds of points (I might simplify that some) makes more since. The equation idea is a good approach for cams and airfoil geometries.

If you have a budget you might consider bringing in a contractor with specific industry surfacing experience. Defiantly give it your best shot before you do bring someone in though. (hopefully you have the time).

What kind of industry are you in? Sounds interesting.
Edited by: design-engine