Revolving a sketch around empty space

[concept]

I have revolved sketches around cylindrical objects but never around empty space where I cannot simply create an axis. I'm sure there is a way to do this but it's not obvious to me. It would be like creating an o-ring, except the sketch is not as simple. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Latitude]

You can create a new axis from just a sketch or you can use one of the pre-defined axes from the design tree.

Predefined axes:


And while in sketch mode after sketching a line:

 

[concept]

Thanks, Lattitude. the pre-existing axis don't seem to work. How did you get to that window after sketching a line. Does the line have to be a reference line?
My sketch was created using the XY-Plane. Its origin is where I created a vertical reference line in the hope that it can be used as an axis.

 

[Latitude]

I'm a bit surprised the pre-existing axis doesn't work, here's an example of me just trying it out. Are you able to record a video of what you're doing when you select the pre-existing axis?



The window after sketching a line - I just search for it next to the "add on" button

 

[concept]

My axis designations are greyed out. Maybe that indicated a problem.

 

[concept]

Okay, it really helps to toggle on all reference axis, planes, etc. Once I did that, I could see that I needed to select the Y-axis.
Thanks again for your help.

 

[concept]

Now here's a strange depiction when I changed the color. The image above has an octagonal geometry that is wafer thin. It may be a bug in Alibre, as I have done no other sketches and extrusions to the model. Also attached is a section view which appears to be normal.

 

[Latitude]

Glad you have it working!

The octagon issue is above my paygrade so to speak, it might be work reaching out to support for that one.

 

[concept]

Hopefully the support department can take a look at my model.

 

[DavidJ]

The octagonal geometry can be removed by changing facet resolution (it occurs at one specific setting). This has been referred to Development for deeper investigation.

 

[concept]

Thanks, David!
I changed the Facet Resolution to Fine and all is well.
For those who have never done this in Alibre Expert:
View>Customize Performance>Display>Facet resolution> Move slider bar to the right.