Unwrap 3D line

I am attempting to take a set of points that define a line in three dimensions and unwrap it to two dimensions. I have tried to change the view, but that is just the projection and not the correct line length. How do I unwrap (for lack of a better word) the line while keeping he true arc length?

Answer 1

[Star Strider]

I doubt if it’s possible. Consider a line defined by single points in x and y, with a range in z (so that it goes from z(1) to z(2)). If you were to ‘unwrap’ it, it would exist as a point only, even though it has length in z.

I would calculate the length as a function of all three coordinates, then display as you wish.

[David Silverman]

I have tried calculating the length as a function of all three coordinates, and it seems correct. However, how do I then display the line with the correct curvature (it has curvature in all three directions)?

[Thorsten]

You can use plot3 to plot a curve in 3D space.