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CAD

Alibre Options: Linking Helix Features for More Accurate Spring Representations

2 Feb, 2006 By: Michael Todd Cadalyst

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The Project to Sketch tool provides a simple solution to link helix features.

Recently I was asked how to create a spring that transitions from a constant pitch to a varying pitch. The simple, but perhaps not so obvious, solution is not to link two existing helix features, but to create one based on the other using the Project to Sketch tool.

1. In Sketch mode sketch a circle and a reference line on the y-axis. The reference line will serve as the axis that the helix will revolve around.
2. Click the Helix tool, use the following options; then click OK.
   1. Select Sketch<1> for the sketch and the reference line for the axis.
   2. Change the type to Revolution & Pitch.
   3. Change the pitch type to Variable Ratio.
   4. Enter 4 for the revolutions, 1.0" for the pitch and 2.5 for the ratio.
3. Create an angled plane by going to Insert / Plane. Choose a plane (xy-plane) and an axis (y-axis). Type in small angle (-3.000?) in the Angle text box.
4. Click on the plane that you just made and go to Sketch mode.
5. Sketch a rectangle that is greater than the profile of the helix.

6. Click the Extrude Cut tool and make sure that you cutting off only the end of the helix.

7. Click the Project to Sketch tool, choose the face of the helix that you just cut, and click Maintain Association to Source Entity. This option will maintain the same radius throughout the helix.
8. Sketch a reference line and click on the Helix Boss tool.
9. Change the following options, and click OK.
   1. Change the type to Height & Revolution.
   2. Type in 4.0 for height and 7 for revolutions.

Repeat these steps as needed to create a representation of a spring with any number of variations.