Part Modeling > Base Features > Helical Sweeps > About Helical Sweeps
  
About Helical Sweeps
You create a helical sweep by sweeping a section (cross-sectional sketch) along a helix (helical trajectory). To define the helix, you define a helix profile, and a helix axis (axis of revolution for the helix).
1. Helix profile
2. Helix axis
When the system rotates the helix profile 360° around the helix axis, a surface of revolution is defined. The surface of revolution is not visible, but the concept is depicted in the image.
1. Helix profile
2. Helix axis
3. Surface of revolution, not visible
Then you sketch a section at the start point.
1. Helix profile
2. Helix axis
3. Sweep section
A helical sweep is created. The surface of revolution defines the distance between the origin of the sweep section and the helix axis of revolution. The helix lies upon the surface of revolution. If the surface of revolution were visible, it would look like this:
You can adjust the parameters of the helical sweep, such as the pitch (the distance between coils), and the section orientation. You can use a constant section, or a section that varies as it sweeps along the trajectory.
This is the finished helical sweep feature.