How to model a ribbon cable that follows a 3D path in SW?
Hello all,
I would like to make a ribbon cable with a simple rectangular cross-section follow a 3D path and align with the destination connector. These are commonly called FPC or FFC cables. I have tried Sweeps and Lofts to get the cable to bend in a way it does naturally but I can't seem to get the part to mimic a natural bend. I have tried simple spline paths which don't always allow for the twist need to connect parallel to the destination. I have tried guide curves of equal length and have tried lofts to keep the rectangular shape in position along its path. My results have been with kinks or varying width or thickness. It sounds like this should be simple, what am I missing? I thought about a Flex but some have many bends to do each bend individually. I attached some sample images of parts I gave up on.
4 Answers
I made a small train at Solidworks. Consists of a chain of curves with equal length and tangential relationship between adjacent curves. With one side locked, I can pull the other side wherever I want. Limited only by the total length of the train. At the same time, the train retains its smoothness.
Hi Jeffrey, it seems to me that loft should be the right way ... Would you post the SW file ?
it consists of a series of curves of the same length and a tangential relationship between adjacent curves. When one side is locked, you can drag the other side wherever you like.
