Window in Dome Structure

[ashot]

Is there any other easy way to make an opening in curved structure than using solid subtraction?

see attached screen shots.

[Benson Shaw]

Here is one other way using the Project Tool in the 3d tool set. But it may not be easier:

If your structure surface is a NURBS surface, you can use the Project tool in Project and Trim mode. Locate the trimming profile (NURBS circle for the holes in your example) so its center normal line is coincident with the normal of the surface (Sphere radius in your example). Not too difficult in the case of a spherical surface. Then set the working plane to the profile plane, and change view to look at the working plane. Now use the Project tool in Trim mode. Result is a new NURBS surface with a hole, but no memory of object used to make or locate the hole. Your solid subtraction method has that memory for every hole.

Also examine the Project and Add mode of the Project Tool to make bezels and lips for recessed or raised additions to the surface.

-B