Let me start by acknowledging that I am not a segmenter, the next segmented blank I make will be my first. I'm still perfecting my skills at turning a square blank round!! So take what I am about to say and show with a grain of salt. Also, the suggestions presented to check out the IAP library is excellent. I've spent many hours browsing it and dreaming ........... one day I'll be able to do that and that and that .............!!
Kevin, thanks for asking this question. It never occurred to me to model a segmented blank and I do a lot of 3D modeling, a lot. But your question got me to thinking, so here goes.
I use Fusion 360 to create various 3D models for 3D printing or full size building. When Kevin asked his question it dawned on me that what he was wanting to do could be modeled in Fusion. So, into Fusion I go and here is what resulted. First up is a simple segementing that is straight forward but doesn't really show the power of modeling.
Blank 1:
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Blank 1 Turned:
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Pretty simple but quite plain.
Blank 2:
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Blank 2 turned:
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A little more character.
Blank 3
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Blank 3 turned:
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We're getting there.
Blank 4:
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Blank 4 turned:
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Much better.
Blank 5:
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Blank 5 turned:
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That's the power of modeling.
Now, I know all this (segmenting) is elementary to those that have mastered this skill and there are many on here that certainly have done that and I admire greatly. But for those of us that are still very wet behind the ears when it comes to segmenting, modeling can be a great tool to visualize ideas before we start making sawdust. Yes, not everyone has the skill set to create 3D models just like not everyone has the skill set to make beautiful segmented blanks ............ right up to the point we make our first one of either. I'm not advocating that modeling is for everyone, just one way to use another tool to help visualize ideas. Fusion 360 is free to hobbyist and really not that hard to learn. There are many training videos available on u-tube. Just an option.