Session 11

1. Introduction

The Blend Command stands out as one of SpaceClaim’s most versatile features, and mastering it is crucial for effective design work in this software. This session delivers focused, example-driven instruction to ensure you understand how to apply the Blend Command in real modeling scenarios.

2. Learning Objectives

The goal of this lesson is to build foundational skills in applying the Blend Command, empowering you to use it with confidence in both basic and advanced designs. You’ll learn how to link points, lines, surfaces, and even entire bodies. The tutorial also covers helpful options like Ruled Segments, Periodic Blend, selecting guide curves, and defining a blend’s centerline—each explained step-by-step.

2.1 Ruled Segments

To demonstrate Ruled Segments, we use a sample curve initially blended with smooth transitions. By enabling Ruled Segments, the software shifts from curved lines to straight segments, illustrating how to create direct, angular connections between points.

2.2 Periodic Blend

Need a fully closed shape from open points or curves? Activate Periodic Blend, and SpaceClaim will automatically loop the blend, connecting the start and end without requiring you to pick both again. This is ideal for forming closed loops for things like surface boundaries or profiles.

2.3 Select Guides

Once you select your points or lines to blend, the Select Guides feature lets you designate one or more guide curves (hold Ctrl to select multiples). The Blend then follows these guides, letting you precisely shape its path—great for complex or custom contours.

2.4 Select Centerline

With Select Centerline, you can pick a curve or axis that influences the blend’s route and curvature. This gives you top-tier control over the blend’s form, especially when shaping around a core axis or along a specific path.

3. Recap

This session gave a hands-on introduction to using the Blend Command in SpaceClaim, covering connections between geometric entities, how to switch from smooth to straight lines, closing shapes automatically, and controlling the blend path with guides or a centerline. You now have practical strategies and options for constructing complex connections in your models efficiently.