Creating paper pinwheel from an image

Question

I have to create a 3D model from an image.

For research purpose, the created model should be almost the same as what it looks like in the image.

My steps :

1. Create a simple triangle mesh
2. Add a simple deform modifier(Bend) to the mesh
3. Add a Bezier circle for this modifier
4. Adjust circle & modifier

No matter how I adjust the transform of Bezier circle or the deform angle in modifier, the model just don't look like the same as what it looks like in the image.

I have tried other ways such as curve modifier, but this is the best result I could get.

Is there a better way of creating this model?

Answer 1

You may try to use Curve and Array modifiers starting with a simple plane instead of triangle.

Add a curve and a plane. Make sure they both have the origin points placed in the same position. Subdivide the plane many times with W-->Subdivide then give it a Curve modifier. Fit the plane to the curve.

Select diagonal vertices and connect them with J. Delete half vertices of the plane. One segment is ready!

Apply the Curve modifier and delete the curve. Snap the plane's origin point to the straight angled corner of a mesh as pictured below (Shift+Ctrl+Alt+C). Next add an Empty there.

Apply the transformations of the objects (Ctrl+A-->Rot&Scale). Add an Array modifier to the plane, change the count number as you like, uncheck the Relative Offset checkbox and check the Object Offset one. Type Empty in the window below. Select an Empty and rotate it as you like.