I am trying to improve my skills with some compound curve modelling. I have stumbled at the first hurdle on where to start.
I have sectioned the model so I can work on each section at a time.
The front roof is where I need help. Can someone point me in the right direction?
I am trying to use native tools with free plugins if possible but if there is an easy paid plugin I will go for it.
then Move, Scale and Mirror. For curvature, use Arc instead of Line.
Or you can use Vertex Tools and SUbD extensions
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also, Curviloft by fredo6
you draw the wireframe of your model, and curviloft it.
the more details you put the better the shape (right one is closer to the train than left one)
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Another simplistic method is to create a sphere, delete 7/8 of it and scale the remaining 1/8 of it.
Click in sequence on the scenes tabs of this SU file for ideas.
Compound curve.skp (666.4 KB)
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All of these are excellent suggestions for you to try @eddy_99. Hopefully one or more of them align with your workflow and if you are using Make as per your profile, you should be able to find a version of the extension that works if you look around online. Do be careful though as Make has not been supported for some time and it may be a bit unstable on more current generation operating systems and adding extensions might make that worse if you are not careful. Either way, be sure to save often.
If you are not using Make, you may be a bit more limited in how this can be accomplished but I am sure our sages can figure out a solution that would work within the web version too.
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another (time consuming) method would be to draw the wiremesh then stitch it by hand.
here is the example that made me buy curviloft a couple days later.
looking again at your photos, I would maybe start with all the flat panels / simple curved ones then work the transitions. I find it easier to “graft” complex shapes on more rational ones.
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Thanks for all the suggestions. It got me started in the right direction.
I ended up using lots of bits from the suggestions and Extrude edges by rails extension by TIG.
I have oversized parts as this will be 3d printed and things like the valve flange are 1.5mm diameter. Models always look bigger in the CAD drawings. CHRIS is 21mm tall.
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My attempt at a Southend-on-Sea pier train. I have shortened it to suit my layout. I will run it as a cast off and couple it with a wagon or two. This was just an exercise in compound curves and learning some new techniques. Designed in SketchUp Make. Fine details will be printed separately, makes it easier to paint.
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