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• A tutorial to demonstrate basic concepts.
  • The basic 3D drawing contains:
    • Explode a Solid
    • Vector Convert a Grid
    • Use Arc Tangent to a Line
    • Reposition with Handles

• Step 1
  • Start by creating a 3D Cone that fits your window with plenty of room to unfold it.
    • Set facets to 12
  • Select the Cone and then select Solid->Solid Explode.
    • This will convert it to a Circle and a Grid.
  • Use Vector Convert to change the grid to Vectors
  • Select the Circle and use Info Box (CTRL+I) to find the Length (Circumference)
    • Select the Length value in the Info Box, Hit CTRL+C to copy it. Click in the drawing window and hit CTRL+V to paste the text for a reference. Example uses Pullout with value pasted in dialog.
  • Select a vector and find the length with Info Box. Paste value in window for reference.

• Step 2
  • Switch to 2D mode.
  • The only Arc command with Radius AND Length is Arc6: Arc tangent to a line.
  • Enter length of vector as radius and Length of Circle as Length of Arc.
  • Set 2 points (anywhere) for 'line' and last point to set Arc.
    • Don't worry about arc orientation, we'll fix that.
  • Select the Arc and set a Handle (CTRL+H) at the Radius point and then use Midpoint Snap to set a Handle midpoint on the Arc.

• Step 3
  • Now Hit 'M' to move the Arc.
  • Set a first point for the top, then with Ortho on (Hotkey 'H') move the cursor downwards and set another point.
  • Arc should now be level.

• Step 4
  • Add Vectors from ends of Arc to the Radius point using Gravity Snaps.
  • Done, now try the Sliced Cone Unfold!
  • Wait . . . first Rate this tutorial!