Clockwork Spring

grabcad

After looking at a question - https://grabcad.com/questions/how-to-convert-curve-helix-sketch-to-unfold-state - as a possible solution I posted the method I used with my Alibre Design software to produce a model of a clockwork spring sheelmetal part. Producing this type of part with Alibre Design is quick and simple ( see Clockwork Spring.pdf ). With the more expensive software, Inventor, Solid Works etc. this model can be produced using the contour flange tool, so I produced examples of this type of part with and old version of Solid Edge and Inventor. I use Alibre Design mostly these days and are very comfortable with this software. Alibre Design I think does a better job than its way more expensive rivals when working with the metal fabrication type of projects I am involved with