How to model a shape with a custom profile in Vectric software | Modeling Tools

Overview

This video demonstrates how to create custom-profile shapes in Vectric Aspire using the “Create Shape with Custom Profiles” modeling tool. It covers vector selection, profile sweep behavior, shape editing with handles, node editing, and the limitations that apply after transforming a component.

Steps

1. Open the Modeling Tools and click the Create shape with custom profiles icon.
2. Select at least one closed vector to define the base outline.
3. Hold Shift and select an open vector to use as the profile/cross-section.
4. Click Create to generate the shape.
5. Inspect the result in 3D; if needed, delete the component and try another profile.
6. To edit immediately after creation, press E to reopen the custom profile form.
7. Use the on-screen handles to adjust:
   • Limit handle – defines where a flat plane cuts off the profile (0–100%).
   • Base height – adds vertical height below the profile.
   • Scale – scales the profile while preserving its shape.
   • Total height – combines scale and base height adjustments.
8. Press N to enter node edit mode, then select and edit the outer shape or cross-section vectors. The 3D preview updates live.
9. Right-click to exit node edit mode; the shape can still be edited with handles.
10. When satisfied, enter a name for the component, click Apply, then Close.
11. If you need to work from an existing component, press Ctrl+click and drag to create a copy.

Key Points / Warnings

• The selected profile width relative to the closed vector radius determines the sweep behavior. A profile width equal to the radius creates a fully spun shape; a smaller profile flattens at the top.
• Profile orientation matters. Flips or reversed profiles produce different geometries.
• Profiles without a “leg” (the small vertical extension that raises the profile off the zero plane) generate shapes that start from the zero plane and can look unexpected.
• Once created, the component is independent of the original vectors: it can be moved, visibility toggled in the Level bar or Component Tree, and further edited.
• Node editing (N) remains available after closing the form, unless the component is transformed.
• If the component is stretched/scaled non-uniformly using the transform handle, it loses its primitive state. You can then no longer press N to edit the profile nodes, and pressing E opens the generic Component Properties form instead of the custom shape form.
• Use the Preserve internal corners option when the shape has internal corners to get sharper, better-defined results.
• When using two closed vectors, the profile is swept from outer to inner. The Blend to inner vectors option fills the center with a flat shape.
• A small “combine” handle opens a form for choosing how to combine the component with others.