Connect Cross-Sections (3-D FFS)

3-D FFS > From c-edges > Connect cross-sections

Use this function to create a freeform surface by connecting cross-sections. The method used is called interpolation, i.e. the freeform surface goes through the cross-sections. The representation of the cross-section is- apart from the specified tolerance - exact.

When you select the function, the Interpolate curves dialogue window is displayed:

1. Identify the cross-sections to be connected one after the other. These cross-sections need to have the same number of edges! End the selection with END. Instead of identifying a cross-section you may as well activate the c-edge selection menu with a right-click and select the cross-sections via the relevant c-edge blocks or the c-edge number.
2. Enter the name of the new part.
3. If required, specify the new connection constraints.

The following connection constraints can be specified for the start-cross-section and the end cross-section: 

None

In this case the direction of the new part will be automatically determined by HiCAD at the start, respectively end cross-section. The connection of the synchronisation lines will be linear.

Tangential

The new part is connected tangentially with the relevant cross-section (for surface boundaries only).

Perpendicular

The connection direction is determined perpendicular to the cross-section.

4. For planar, closed cross-sections you can specify under Surface set/Solids how the base surface and the top surface are to be treated. If both base surface and top surface are closed you will get a solid which can, for instance, be processed further (cuts, bores etc.). The following settings are possible:

Leave open

The surface is not closed. This option is only available for closed cross-sections.

Union

The created transition piece is directly connected with one or both parts in a Boolean manner. This setting is not possible if the identified cross-sections are c-edges!

Close

The relevant surface is closed. If both base surface and top surface are closed, you will get a solid which can then be processed further (cuts, bores etc.). This option is only available for closed cross-sections.

5. Activate the Process tangents checkbox if you want to explicitly specify the length of the tangents and, if required, reverse the direction. If the checkbox has not been activated, HiCAD determines the lengths automatically.

Examples: Connect cross-sections (3-D FFS)

Interpolate Cross-Sections (3-D FFS) • Overview of Functions (3-D FFS) • Freeform Surfaces