Pattern along a curve but change orientation according to different curve

[GV_SVT]

Creo Parametric 8.0.7.0

I am trying to achieve a curve pattern that follows a specific curve, but changes its orientation according to another curve. I thought the "Follow Shape Surface" might be able to help with this, but I have never been successful in generating a pattern with that option turned on.

Hopefully the pictures included give a clear idea of what I am trying to achieve. I can share models and methods I've tried if required, but it might only mislead the discussion at this time.

[pausob · Accepted solution]

One way I can think of doing this in part mode is as follows:

point PNT0 is defined to be "on curve", some distance or % away from one of its ends.

Extrude 1 section is made to use PNT0 as the anchor point and the larger radius curve as the reference.  The central construction line is perpendicular to this reference.

Thus the Extrude 1 "arrow tip" will be always be pointing in the normal direction to the large curve.

(note PNT0 is "absorbed" by dragging it into Extrude1)

Now use dimension pattern to multiply extrude 1, varying the distance of its internal anchor point:

End result:

Note the reference curve can be a more complicated composite curve.  

But seems it cannot be a spline.

[ProFeature]

Hi @GV_SVT 

The attached model (Creo 10) illustrates the process. I hope the illustration is clear.

[GV_SVT]

Thanks for the response! Unfortunately, I am unable to open your file since it's a newer version. Is your method similar to pausob response above by using the dimension pattern? Or were you able to achieve this with a curve pattern?

[tbraxton]

This is a method to use a spline to drive a pattern including a reference to be normal to the spline for each pattern instance. This may be useful for what you are attempting to achieve. Creo 7 model enclosed for reference.

Curve driven pattern with instances normal to the curve