Create a 3D solid or
surface by stretching curves into 3D space.
The EXTRUDE command creates
a solid or surface that extends the shape of a curve. Open curves
create surfaces and closed curves create solids or surfaces. See Overview of Creating Solids and Surfaces.
Options for Extrusion
When you extrude objects,
you can specify any of the following options:
Mode. Sets whether
the extrude creates a surface or a solid.
Specify a path for extrusion. With
the Path option, create a solid or surface by specifying an object
to be the path for the profile, or shape, of the extrusion. The
extruded object starts from the plane of the profile and ends on
a plane perpendicular to the path at the endpoint of the path. For best
results, use object snaps to make sure that the path is on or within
the boundary of the object being extruded.
Extruding is different
from sweeping. When you extrude a profile along a path, the profile
follows the shape of the path, even if the path does not intersect
the profile. Sweeping usually provides greater control and better results.
Taper angle. Tapering
the extrusion is useful for defining part that require a specific
taper angle, such as a mold used to create metal products in a foundry.
Direction. With
the Direction option, you can specify two points to set the length
and direction of the extrusion.
