Extrude creates a surface from a curve by extending that line sideways a specified distance. Sideways can be a linear distance in any direction. This is important as the extrude does not have to be only in the direction of an X, Y, or Z axis. Extruding along an axis is an easy way to build such a surface which you could then move or transform into the final position if you prefer. Extrudes are a shortcut to create a ruled surface between a curve and a transformation of the curve.
Extruded surfaces are exact.
To create an extruded surface:
- Select Construct tab > Surfaces panel > From Curves > Extrude to display the Extruded Surface dialog.
- Optionally enter a name in the Surface name field.
- Select the curve you want to use from the
Curve menu, or click the
Pick Curve
button and select it in the graphics window.
- Specify the dimensions of the extrude using one of the following methods:
- Enter the dimensions of a vector along which to extrude the surface in the Vector X, Y and Z fields.
- Enter the beginning and end locations of the extrude.
- Click OK.
Example
The handle on this hairdryer is an extruded surface:
The curve for the handle was drawn with the arcs and lines tools. The geometry was chained into a single curve which was then transformed down in Z to the depth where the handle exists. This transform operation puts a bounding curve in location for the top surface of the handle as well.
Then the handle curve was extruded along a vector -0.75 inches in Z.