| Contouring a NURBS Surface | |
|---|---|
| This method of lamination explored here is a method of physical modeling that involves stacking pieces of material on top of each other to create a singular volume. It can be a helpful tool for modeling curved geometries. | |
| Part of | Rhinoceros |
| Part Type | Method |
| Screenshot |
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Lamination is a method of physical modeling that involves stacking pieces of material on top of each other to create a singular volume. It can be a helpful tool for modeling curved geometries.
Steps
Orientation
The most important decision to make with lamination is the orientation. For example, you can create a rectilinear model by stacking horizontal pieces on top of each other or you could model the same volume by gluing vertical pieces together. The decision about orientation can help reinforce some of your design ideas.
Contouring
The process of lamination involves using the Contour command to create sections through the polysurface. Material thickness is very important, since this determines the spacing between each contour. For example, if you are using 1/8" chipboard to build your model, then your contours should be spaced 1/8" apart. Make sure to measure your material very carefully if you choose this method.
When prompted, specify a base point. This should be the top or bottom of the model when laminating vertically, or one of the sides when laminating horizontally. Then pick a point perpendicular to the contour plane. Finally, specify the spacing.
Lamination Speed Tip
- You can use the Shear command to quickly separate contoured linework. After using the Contour to create the serial sections, Join all the linework that was created. Then select all of the lines (not the model) and type in the Shear command. In your Right viewport, first click on the bottom of the model. Then click directly above it (but not on the model, to make sure that your line is perfectly vertical). Then move to the Top viewport to view the linework moving away, sheared into place. Use your judgement for proper spacing for your next click.