I have absolutely no idea on how to use geometry nodes, and my regular modelling isn’t really enough for the job
It’s actually pretty easy if you cut it into its smallest component.
It is a repeating pattern so you only need to model one “X” and then recreate the repetition use the array modifier (in two directions).
Disregard the depth of the grate, use a solidify modifier instead.
In regards to the bending of the shape, you can create/model it as a low res model of the shape and then apply a SubD modifier to smooth it out (create a nice curvature).
Hi lucas_skruz,
i also had to model such an expanded metal a couple months ago.
You don’t even have to model the whole “X” → you only need a quarter of it.
Take a look at this:
Expanded_Metal.blend (1.4 MB)
I used @higgsas Loft Splines nodegroup to create the shape of the “quarter X” using two curves:
After that it’s just some instancing and mirroring to get the grid (which probably could be done better, but it’s just a quick and dirty setup ).
If you want to change the shape you have to watch out, that you only move the curve points on an X/Y plane! Otherwise the setup will break up really easily…
Sometimes it’s also worth to understand how this might be built in real… maybe so :
…some repeative cuts and some bending back and forth and additionally up and down…
here some more visual explanation… ( even if my “drawing”… sucks )
…and so ananlyzing the repeative pattern…
Thank you, this helped me a lot now