3d reshape tools and editing VW 2008

[BLM]

When double clicking on a 3d shape, eg, extrude, there are no modes shown within the toolbar for stretching, adding vertices etc. can only move object as no handles. When the edit window opens and handles available there is no reference to the 2d model for smart pints so reshaping is guesswork. I thought you were supposed to be able to edit 3d shapes in 2d mode/view?? OK am a beginner so probably missing something vital.

[Benson Shaw]

First, your question about editing the extrude creation poly without access to 2d model in edit mode. For this example, assume the extrude has at least two discernible points in its creation polygon (say two corner points), is created then moved and rotated only in top view, and you want one vertex of the extrude's creation poly moved to the center of a nearby 2d circle (but the other extrude poly vertices do not move).

1. In Top or Top Plan View, draw a 2d guide polyline from center of circle, to 1st corner of extrude, then to 2nd corner of extrude. Copy this poly to clipboard.

2. Dbl click extrude to enter edit. Deselect the extrude poly and paste the guide poly.

3. Move and rotate the guide poly so it snaps to the proper corner points of the extrude poly.

4. Select the extrude poly and use the 2d Reshape Tool to move the extrude vertex to the start point of the guide poly.

5. Delete the guide poly, and exit the extrude edit. Now the extrude has a vertex on the center of the circle. Delete the guide poly.

Extrudes are special. The 3d reshape tool only changes the height, and only in views which show the height. The 2d Move and Rotate tools move an extrude parallel to the ground plane. These 2d tools can adjust the extrude extents, but only if the extrude has its creation poly on one of the three xyz planes.

One way to edit 3d location of individual vertices is to convert the extrude to Mesh. Now use 3d Select Tool (not the 3d Reshape Tool) to marquee around a vertex(s) and click/drag it(them). Shift click to add or subtract vertices to/from the selection. The cursor does not change during the move to the familiar box with arrows. Mesh vertex locations can also be adjusted in the OIP.

-B

[BLM]

Thanks very much for advice.It is a great trick!. Can a mesh then be reconverted to form a solid object with surfaces?

[Benson Shaw]

Not sure what you mean. Did you try something which did not work?

In VW 2008 and earlier, the mesh is a solid object and does have surface, at least in terms of accepting fills and textures. Some mesh objects can be converted to other types of solids. Conversion usually forms a group of facets rather than a continuous solid object. Sometimes, Compose or Add Solids can be applied to reconstitute a solid. Sometimes this does not work. If converted to NURBS, the individual facets can be "inflated" or otherwise curved, and possibly recombined into a volume. Drape Surface and other operations can produce a new object with related shape.

Apparently, Vw 2009 has broader abilities with these operations.

Make a profile in My Stuff to post your system and VW info.

-B