In Siemens NX, curves are useful in defining geometry for both 2- and 3D models. Curves are often used as foundational elements in modeling processes, especially when creating complex shapes or surfaces that are not easily defined by two-dimensional sketch entities.
NX curves can be classified into several types, such as splines, polylines, arcs, conics, and helical curves. These curves can be parametrically defined, meaning they can be driven by dimensions or constraints, making them adaptable to changes in the design intent. Curves can be generated through direct sketching, or they can be extracted from existing geometry, imported from other CAD data, or created based on mathematical expressions.
Curves are often used as paths for sweeps, lofts, or other advanced surfacing features, and they are useful when working with surfaces, allowing for greater control over continuity and smoothness in complex models. In NX, associative relationships can be established between curves and other features.