The Curvature tool in Autodesk FeatureCAM can be used to measure draft angles and radii of solid models.
Curvature samples the surface and computes the curvature in two directions to describe how the surface behaves at a point. Unlike the other dimensioning tools, Curvature is a real-time rubber-banding effect where you traverse the surface to find the point with the smallest curvature radius. From this information you can determine the smallest tool you need to manufacture the surface.
To use Curvature:
- Select Construct tab > Geometry panel > Dimension > Curvature.
- Select a surface in the graphics window.
- Move the cursor over a point on the surface, particularly in the tight constrained areas or joints. The properties of the point are displayed in the dialog bar.
- Note the smallest value of the Radius of curvature. This is the smallest tool end radius you need to accurately machine the surface.
- Set up rough and finish passes for the surface feature based on this knowledge, and ensure the tool is available for production.
For a video showing this tool in action visit: