Feature request : "Unroll..." a curved edge...

[Alex Farlie]

In the attached drawing , I was trying to make a simple model bridge.

Constructing the elevations , the top roadway and the sides of the bridge is straightforward.

However I hit a problem when trying to do the "crown" of the arch.

I am therefore asking for a tool/extension that would 'unroll' a path, (or create new one) whilst (as far as possible) keeping appropriate distances between nodes so that the modified (or new path) could then be used to create an appropriate
'surface' that could be used to complete the parts needed for the 'paper model' bridge I was developing.

Unrolling/unwrapping a path involves the translation and rotation of nodes such that all the nodes in the modified (or new path lie on the same straight line (ideally one parallel with an appropriate axis. However, the appropriate internode distances should be maintained.

At present I am only considering (and thus asking for a 'simple' unroll/unwrap, because I am not sure the current interface in Inkscape could cope with the demands of needing to interpret pre CAD technical drafting/drawing methods needed for designing for example, sheet metal constructions... (as in the old examples here -https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Sheet_Metal_Drafting_%28book%29 ) or as in my case, paper model parts.

However, if someone wants to take on the task of adding a full suite of such drafting aids in Inkscape., I'd be welcome to contribute my views. (Some of the techniques could possibly be supported by extending what guides do.)

Additionally, if someone wants to write tutorial on how to do old-style drafting techniques within Inkscape it would be appreciated. ( The old archive book linked being transcribed with that in mind.).