How to model a round shape in Aspire in Vectric software | Modeling Tools

Overview

This video demonstrates how to create and edit rounded (domed) 3D components from closed vectors in Aspire using the Create Rounded Shape tool. It covers dynamic handle-based editing, precise numeric input, limiting, scaling, tilt/fade options, and limitations when using transform handles.

Steps

1. Open the tool: Go to the Modeling tab and click Create Rounded Shape Components.
2. Select a vector: Click a closed vector (e.g., circle) in the 2D view.
3. Adjust the angle handle:
   • Click and drag the angle handle upward to create a dome/rounded shape.
   • Angle updates dynamically; max is 90° (positive) and -90° (negative).
   • Or enter an exact angle in the angle input field.
4. Adjust the base height handle:
   • Drag the base height handle up to add vertical height below the shape.
   • Type 0 to remove base height.
   • Double-click the handle to reset to zero.
5. Name and apply:
   • Enter a component name in the form.
   • Click Apply, then Close.
6. Access the component after creation:
   • Use the level drop-down or Components tab to select/visibility toggle.
   • Basic handles (base height, scale, total height) remain available.
7. Re-edit the contour/angle:
   • Press E to reopen the Create Rounded Shape form.
   • Press N for node edit mode to adjust the boundary/contour of the shape.
   • Right-click to exit node edit mode.
8. Create a rounded shape between two closed vectors:
   • Select two closed vectors (e.g., two circles).
   • Drag the angle handle to create a donut/ring shape with the angle applied between them.
9. Use the Limit handle:
   • Drag the limit handle down to flatten/cut off the top of the shape at a percentage (0-100%).
   • Return to 100% to reset.
10. Use the Scale Factor handle:
    • Drag to scale the shape height proportionally.
    • Enter 100 in the scale field to revert to original scale.
11. Use the Total Height handle:
    • Shows current total height (includes base height).
    • Reducing it proportionally reduces both scale and base height.
12. Use Preserve Internal Corners:
    • For shapes with corners (e.g., star), enable Preserve internal corners for a cleaner result.
13. Apply Fade or Tilt:
    • In the Properties section of the form, check Fade or Tilt.
    • Click Set and define two points in top-down view to set the fade/tilt direction.
    • Adjust the fade percentage or tilt angle from the form.

Key Points / Warnings

• Once a shape is created, it is no longer linked to the original vector; it can be moved independently.
• If you edit the shape using transform handles (e.g., scale/stretch), you lose access to the original angle, limit, scale, and tilt/fade handles when pressing E – only basic component properties remain.
• Node edit mode (N) can be used on an existing component to modify its boundary and still retain access to angle/limit handles (as long as transform handles were not used).
• Fade reduces component height by a percentage across the selected direction; Tilt applies an angled base height – useful for simulating depth/overlap between components.
• The limit handle flattens the top of the dome at a chosen percentage; setting it back to 100% resets the full rounded shape.
• Use the slider or direct numeric input for precise control of angle, base height, scale, limit, fade, and tilt values.