5 Replies Latest reply on Sep 22, 2011 9:47 AM by Deepak Gupta

Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes

Wayne Schafer Aug 17, 2011 9:28 AM

We do a lot of tube parts and is there an idea way to place xyz points which are not all on the same plane when creating a sketch. Currently I use the 3D sketcher and draw construction lines to each point to control the tube. Is there a better way?

Re: Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes

Deepak Gupta Aug 17, 2011 9:37 AM (in response to Wayne Schafer)

Put the coordinates in a text file and then use the option Curve thru XYZ points under Insert > Curve. In the pop up window for the setting the coordinates, browse to the text file.
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- Re: Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes
  
  Wayne Schafer Aug 17, 2011 9:53 AM (in response to Deepak Gupta)
  
  I was not completely clear on my question. I want to be able to control the size of the radius between the straight lengths also.
  
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  - Re: Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes
    
    Deepak Gupta Aug 17, 2011 10:12 AM (in response to Wayne Schafer)
    
    When I used to draw them, I used the following process:
    
    Place the points randomly.
    Select each point, set the coordinates and apply a fix relation (so that it doesn't move)
    Draw lines to connect the points.
    Finally add the required fillet.
    
    After that I was able to find a macro which can do all of these and you just need to keep on entering the number of bends,coordinates and radius but I'm not able to locate that one right now
    
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    - Re: Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes
      
      Wayne Schafer Sep 22, 2011 9:21 AM (in response to Deepak Gupta)
      
      Did you ever locate the Macro you were refering too?
      
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      - Re: Sketching xyz coordinates for tubes
        
        Deepak Gupta Sep 22, 2011 9:47 AM (in response to Wayne Schafer)
        
        Not the one I had used but look at the one shared by Michael Beem on SW Cad to generate curve using an excel file. Check if that fits your need. Look for excel macro and sample SolidWorks file here: SW cad: Table for curves
        
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