How do you create a double helix in Illustrator?

[mistercitizen]

I need to create a perfectly geometric helix, as per the diagram in the link:

http://www.chemsoc.org/exemplarchem/entries/2002/Robert_Frost/english/structures/rnadna.jpg

What is the technique for making geometric helixes?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Eggles]

You'd almost need a 3D drawing application rather than AI's 2D approach.

 

[mistercitizen]

Really?

The image on the right seems to consist of three main parts which are repeated;

• The foremost part of the helix
• The back part (most distant, and obscured)
• The horizontal parts in the middle

It's just a matter of getting the curves 100% precise (I think!).

How it this done? Mathematically?

 

[blueark]

http://www.computerarts.co.uk

had an article recently about creating a simplified helix shape. It was nowhere near as complex as your example, but it might be a good start for getting the curves right:

1: Draw a perfectly vertical line, about the length of the helix
2: Filter > Distort > Zig Zag. Make sure preview is activated, and alter the number of "Ridges per Segment". Also make sure Points are set to "Smooth".

At this stage, you should have a basic helix curve. I don't know if it's scientifically accurate, but it might give you a good start.

 

[mistercitizen]

I found this tutorial after some asking about on

http://www.illustratorworld.com

http://www.pagedepot.com/lpere/temp/helix/

Excellent tutorial - works a treat. Don't be put off by the fact that it has 18 steps - it doesn't take that long at all.

I'll give your method a try too, blueark and see how that goes.