Using Splines in Solidworks

How to...

  1. Step 1:

    Firstly, don't use too many points, these will need to be controlled and will make your curve less smooth.
    This example is not so good...

  2. Step 2:

    This can be seen with the curvature comb tool.
    Rigth click the curve and select the tool.
    Notice the lumps and bumps in the comb (exaggerated).

  3. Step 3:

    Add a two point spline instead (don't add points at the middle).
    This will look like a straight line to start with, just grab the handles to manipulate the curve.

  4. Step 4:

    Add relations and dimensions to the curve or handles.
    I have related the curve - tangent to the two centrelines.
    I have added a length dimension to the top handle.
    You can also add angle dimensions to the handle from another line if wanted.

  5. Step 5:

    The two point curve, fully defined is near identical to the original curve but is much smoother when checking with the comb tool.

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