MakerSolid Documentation Version 1.5.1

Modeling tool

Helix

Create a reusable parametric helical or flat-spiral wire path for Sweep and other edge-based workflows.

Purpose

Create a reusable parametric helical or flat-spiral wire path for Sweep and other edge-based workflows.

Where to find it

Open Model, open Create, and choose Helix.

Selection

  • No selection is required. Choose a world, construction, or supported model axis when needed.

Steps

  1. Set centerline Diameter, Turns, and Pitch in the command bar.
  2. Open Details to choose Helix or Flat Spiral, taper, variable pitch, handedness, start angle, and axis.
  3. Tap Apply, then select the generated edge when a Sweep asks for a path.

Options

Diameter / End Diameter

Set equal diameters for a cylinder or different diameters for a tapered path; the start radius can follow a circular edge or cylindrical/conical face.

ƒ Accepts variables and expressions

Definition

Control the path with Turns & Pitch, Turns & Height, or Height & Pitch.

Turns & PitchTurns & HeightHeight & Pitch

ƒ Accepts variables and expressions

Taper By

Sets taper by end diameter, cone angle, or radial growth per turn.

End DiameterCone AngleGrowth / Turn

ƒ Accepts variables and expressions

Variable Pitch

Uses ordered pitch stations with smooth transitions.

ƒ Accepts variables and expressions

Type

Creates a three-dimensional helix or a planar spiral.

HelixFlat Spiral

Axis, Clockwise, Reverse Axis, Start Angle

Control the path frame, winding direction, and initial angular placement.

Start / End Conditions

Use a start angle or picked point and a calculated or picked endpoint. Endpoint rounding chooses the nearest, lower, or upper phase-aligned revolution count.

Result

Apply adds a one-edge wire under Wire Bodies whose exact B-spline data can be selected as an associative Sweep path. A successful Sweep hides the source wire while retaining its Helix feature in History; use the wire visibility control to show it again.

Editing

Open Helix in History to change dimensions; downstream Sweep references rebuild from the same edge reference when it remains valid.

Troubleshooting

Sweep cannot use the path.

Select the Helix body edge, keep the source feature unsuppressed, and ensure the sweep profile can be attached at the chosen path end.

Broader reference

Model toolsReference for every visible solid creation, modification, construction, pattern, and inspection tool.
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