Freeform, Surface Modeling, and Analysis

Surfaces in Inventor are non-solid, zero-thickness features that define contoured shapes and geometry. They are often used to depict complex forms where traditional solid modeling tools would be limited in communicating the design intent. Surfaces can be used in context with solid modeling techniques or independently. Surfaces in Inventor can also be used as references to aid in the creation of other geometry in the model. In most cases, surfaces in Inventor are used to create surface models that are converted to solid models, define complex curves, cuts, and extrusions, or create a skin over imported wireframe models. The Freeform modeling tools within Inventor allow you to create complex organic shaped forms with conventional modeling techniques.

Both surface modeling and freeform geometry modeling environments and tools will be covered in this chapter. We will examine the limitations of the conventional lofts and sweeps within Inventor...