Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
The Loft tool's dialog box has quite a few options. The basic functions such as
Join, Cut, Intersect, and New Solid are the same as those for other sketched fea-
tures. The tool itself uses several techniques to construct how the loft is created.
These techniques are refl ected in the grouping of options on three tabs: Curves,
Conditions, and Transition.
The Curves Tab
This tab is where you defi ne the curves and profi les that are used to construct
the loft. You also select the method to use for the defi nition of the feature:
Sections As noted, a loft is built based on sections, which can be sketches or
model edges. As you select the sections you want to build with, the selections
appear as a list in the Sections area of the tab.
Loft Types Between the Sections and Rails lists are three options for the type
of loft solution that will be applied:
Rails To use this solution, you must have at least two sections and a
third curve that you select as a rail. This rail must come in contact
with geometry in each of the sections.
Center Line This works just like the Rails definition, but the center-
line doesn't have to contact the sections.
Area Loft This is a useful option if you're building manifolds or need
to control flow. It works like the Center Line option but allows you to
calculate the area of the shape as it transitions down the centerline.
Rails/Center Line/Placed Sections This list changes names based on the con-
struction technique, but it displays the options used to guide your sections to
form the lofted shape.
Closed Loop Selecting this option causes the end section to transition back
into the beginning section.
Merge Tangent Faces As Inventor develops a loft, it generates separate surfaces
for each segment in a section sketch. If you select this option, it merges those
separate surfaces together if they're tangent to one another.
The Conditions Tab
Each section selected (sketched or part edge) is listed on this tab with a transi-
tion condition applied. Several types of transitions can either be applied by the
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