2011

Table Of Contents
Analyze the Curvature of a NURBS Surface
Displays a color gradient onto surfaces to evaluate areas of high, low and
Gaussian curvature.
The color gradient allows you to visualize Gaussian, minimum, maximum,
and mean U and V surface curvature. Maximum curvature and a positive
Gaussian value display as red, and minimum curvature and a negative Gaussian
value display as blue. Positive Gaussian curvature means the surface is shaped
like a bowl. Negative Gaussian curvature means the surface is shaped like a
saddle as shown in this illustration. Mean curvature and a zero Gaussian value
means the surface is flat in at least one direction (planes, cylinders, and cones
have zero Gaussian curvature).
The curvature analysis tool ensures that your model stays within a specified
range. You can analyze the following on a point on a surface or curve:
NOTE Analysis tools only work in the 3D visual styles; they will not work in 2D.
To analyze the curvature of a surface
1 Click Surface tab Analysis panel Curvature.
2 Select a surface and press Enter.
The curvature coloring display.
To turn off the curvature color display
1 Click Surface tab Analysis panel Analysis Options.
2 Click the Clear Curvature Analysis button.
The curvature coloring disappears.
To change the curvature analysis options
1 Click Surface tab Analysis panel Analysis Options.
2 In the Curvature tab of the Analysis Options dialog box, select the desired
options and click OK.
Analyze Surfaces | 1165