Replies

1. 
   CHARLES_CHRISTENSEN | Jan 26, 2000 08:32pm | #1

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   I wrote a BASIC program for the old COMMODORE 64 computer that figured out points along one quadrant of an ellipse. You give it the major axis, minor axis and select the number of degrees between points (1 to 5 degrees. One degree gave the smoothest curve.). It would then print out the X and Y coordinates of those points. For the other three quadrants you would just change the X and Y signs.

   The problem is that I no longer have a COMMODORE 64 and I will have to hunt for the program. I could adapt it to a standard PC.

   I used what is called the TRAMMEL(sp?) method for computing the points and I will have to refresh myself on that also - as soon as I find the book.

   I will try to find this stuff if you wish unless someone comes up with an easier solution. If anyone out there would like a copy of this program then let me know.

2. 
   Guest_ | Jan 26, 2000 08:53pm | #2

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   Check out

   http://www.taunton.com/fw/features/techniques/71ellipse.htm

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 27, 2000 03:32am | #4

   *Rich,

   After you read the 200 posts on this subject you might want to build this jig to cut your arches. I posted this over at knots but, you might be able to use it.

   Click to Enlarge Images.

   I built this jig about eleven years ago when I was framing a lot of elliptical arch ways. I had just become very tried of using a jig saw. The whole jig consists of . . . Two pieces of 2" aluminum "C" channel. One 40" long. One 25" long. One piece of 3/4" plywood, 3-1/4" x 40" to make the beam. Two small pieces of Oak to form the focal points, 4-3/8" x 1-7/16" x 1-1/16" with a 1/4" chamfer on two sides. Two 2" x 3/16" carriage bolts with some wing nuts and washers. An auxiliary plate for whatever router you might use.

   The jig is not hard to build and is incredibly smooth in its operation (it surprised me when I first used it). If you what to know a little more about ellipses you can take a look at this. If you would like to know more about this jig you can email me.

   Joseph FuscoView Image"Whenever, therefore, people are deceived and form opinions wide of the truth, it is clear that the error has slid into their minds through the medium of certain resemblance's to that truth." Socrates

3. 
   Rich_Hendricks | Jan 27, 2000 03:32am | #3

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   A client wishes to have an ellipse instead of an archway in a 9' passageway between the living and dining rooms and I haven't drawn one since high school geometry. Any short-cuts to the layout of this one?