Boolean 2D

The Draw->Boolean2D command in the Model module allows you to perform Boolean operations on two closed linear curves. You can perform the traditional union, difference, and intersection Boolean operations in any of the three drawing planes (xy, xz, or yz) to create complex shapes from simple curves. The resulting object is a closed linear curve or a hierarchy of linear curves.

Procedure

1. Create two closed linear curves and select one of them.

Tip:
If you want to apply the effect to B-Spline curves, you must first convert them to linear curves using the Effect->Convert command in the Model module. In the dialogue box that is displayed, select the Keep Curve and Linear options, and set the subdivision factor as desired.

If you want to apply the effect to NURBS curves, you must first convert them to linear NURBS, then convert the linear NURBS to linear type curves.

2. Choose the Draw->Boolean2D command in the Model module.
   
   The following dialogue box is displayed:
   
3. Choose the Projection plane: Front, Top, or Right.
4. Choose the desired Boolean operation: Union, Intersection, or Difference.
5. Click Ok.
6. Pick the first curve, then pick the second curve. A new closed curve is created representing the results of the Boolean operation.

Parameters

Projection

• Front selects the Front window as the projection window for the two curves. This window corresponds to the xy plane.
• Top selects the Top window as the projection window for the two curves. This window corresponds to the xz plane.
• Right selects the Right window as the projection window for the two curves. This window corresponds to the yz plane.

Union

The two curves are merged and the intersecting portions are discarded to create a new curve.

Intersection

The intersecting portions of the two curves are used to create the new curve.

Difference

All parts of the first curve that are different from the second curve are used to create the new curve.

Last updated 08-apr-1998