Surface Projection

Surface projection enables you to extract curves from vertical surfaces. You can use these curves to create 2.5D features from surface or solid models.

This method is a wizard that creates geometry by projecting straight-walled surfaces, for example:

The method performs these steps:

1. Identify straight vertical surfaces from the selected set or from all surfaces (depending on the option selected).
2. Project these surfaces on to the current UCS.
3. Convert the curves into lines and arcs.

To create a curve using surface projection:

1. Select Construct tab > Curves panel > From Surfaces > Surface Projection to open the Surface Projection wizard.

   The Surface Projection wizard opens on the first page.

2. If you are not extracting curves from drafted features, set both the Wall angle and Elevation to 0 and click Next.
3. If you want to extract curves from drafted surfaces, enter a Wall angle, or click the blue Wall angle label and click two points on the same vertical isoline in the graphics window.
4. For the Elevation enter the Z coordinate of the top of the feature or click the Elevation label and click the top of a wall of the drafted surface in the graphics window.
5. Click Next.
6. Select from:
   • All surfaces - to extract curves from all surfaces.
   • Only selected - to extract curves from only the surfaces you have selected.
7. If you are working with a solid model, you have the option to Remove hidden lines on solids. It is generally a good idea to select this option. It prevents the creation of curves from blind features that are on the bottom of the part.
8. Click Next.
9. After you click the Finish button in this dialog, you must chain the geometry into curves. Select what to do with the geometry after chaining:
   • Remove after chaining - if you want the geometry you created to be removed when you have finished chaining.
   • Keep all geometry - if you want to permanently keep the geometry after chaining.
10. Click the Finish button.