AutoCAD Sweep

AutoCAD Sweep is a powerful tool that allows users to create complex 3D shapes by sweeping a profile along a path. This tool is particularly useful for creating molding, spiral staircases, and other intricate shapes that are difficult to model using traditional 3D modeling techniques.

How it Works

The AutoCAD Sweep command works by taking two inputs: a profile and a path. The profile is a 2D shape that will be extruded along the path to create the 3D shape. The path can be any 2D or 3D curve, such as a circle, a spline, or a polyline.

When the Sweep command is executed, AutoCAD creates a 3D solid object by sweeping the profile along the path. The resulting object is a smooth, continuous shape that is defined by the curvature of the path and the cross-sectional shape of the profile.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the AutoCAD Sweep command:

• Use the Loft or Revolve commands to create the profile shape before using Sweep.
• Experiment with different types of paths to create unique shapes.
• Use the SUBTRACT command to remove unwanted portions of the resulting solid object.

Example Code

Here is an example code snippet that demonstrates how to use the AutoCAD Sweep command:

// Define the profile shape
Circle profile = new Circle(new Point3d(0, 0, 0), Vector3d.ZAxis, 0.5);

// Define the path curve
Polyline path = new Polyline();
path.AddVertexAt(0, new Point2d(0, 0), 0, 0, 0);
path.AddVertexAt(1, new Point2d(0, 1), 0, 0, 0);
path.AddVertexAt(2, new Point2d(1, 1), 0, 0, 0);

// Create the sweep
Sweep sweep = new Sweep();
sweep.SetToPath(profile, path);

// Add the resulting solid to the drawing
Database db = HostApplicationServices.WorkingDatabase;
using (Transaction tr = db.TransactionManager.StartTransaction())
{
    BlockTableRecord btr = (BlockTableRecord)tr.GetObject(db.CurrentSpaceId, OpenMode.ForWrite);
    btr.AppendEntity(sweep.SweptSolid);
    tr.AddNewlyCreatedDBObject(sweep.SweptSolid, true);
    tr.Commit();
}

This code creates a circular profile and a polyline path, and then uses the Sweep command to create a 3D solid object by sweeping the profile along the path. Finally, the resulting solid object is added to the current AutoCAD drawing.