AutoCAD 2019: Blend Curves

By John Flanagan 

Introduction

Just like the Fillet and Chamfer commands, the Blend command offers another method for creating transitions between 2D drawing objects. Whereas Chamfer creates bevelled corners (that is, straight lines), and Fillet creates round corners (circular arcs), BLEND corners are spline objects.

Blend Curves Command – Location

On the modify panel click the dropdown button on the Fillet icon to access the Blend Curves tool. This tool can be used in both 2D and 3D workspaces for blending curves.     

Blend Curves Command – Function

Creates a spline in the gap between two selected lines or curves.

Select each object near an endpoint. The shape of the resulting spline depends on the specified continuity. The lengths of the selected objects remain unchanged.   

Valid objects include lines, arcs, elliptical arcs, helixes, open polylines and open splines.

The following prompts are displayed:

Select First Object or Continuity

Selects a line or open curve near the end where the spline should start.

Second Object

Selects another line or open curve near the end where the spline should end.

Conclusion

Unlike Fillet and Chamfer, both of which would modify the source objects to make a radiused or bevelled transition, BLEND leaves the source objects intact. Blends appeal to industrial designers and other purveyors of swoopy shapes. If you’re a mechanical drafter, stick with fillets and chamfers.