GEOMETRY AND CAD / FIELD NOTE 12

Why Surface Normals Matter on Curved Panels

The surface normal identifies the face direction at a point. Reversed normals can confuse which side receives a finish, which way an offset is applied and which direction a returned edge projects.

Juchang technical editorial ·

Review checkpoints: Visible face → Normal direction → Offset check
Review checkpoints: Visible face → Normal direction → Offset check.

What to check on your project

Mark the visible side on the elevation and in the model. Check normals after export and review an offset section near a boundary. Keep face and back references distinct on inspection drawings.

Related field note

Developed Blank vs Finished Face Area ↗