How to convert bezier to lines

Question

Can you please explain how to convert one Bézier curve to several straight lines?

I have one curve:

I want (for example) five segments with points on this curve.

Answer 1

You can apply extension Modify path > Flatten Bezier. the Flatness parameter affect "the smaller parameter the more nodes and the better fit". The numeric value unfortunately tells something exact only for those who have time to read the documentation and who understand Bezier Curve mathematics.

ADD: I must admit I do not know how Flatness exactly is calculated but there's a comment which says something about it.

You have no control where flattening actually inserts nodes.

There can occur cases where miter joints at nodes look weird. Check smoother joint options in the Stroke Style dialog.

You can draw the wanted polyline with the Bezier tool (=the Pen). Deselect the original to avoid joining. Set all point snaps on. Then click along the path. If you have snaps on you meet the curve with every click.

This needed 5 clicks on the curve and one right click to accept the generated red polyline.

Answer 2

Select the node tool from the tool bar.

Place the pointer/cursor over the desired location for the new node, double click. Before:

After:

If you require to keep the original curve, create lines connecting the new nodes. If not, you can delete the original curve.

Another, less convenient method will change the curves to lines, by control-clicking on each node to change the type. This will then require to adjust the curve handles. It allows more flexibility than straight segments, but requires more work.

Answer 3

1. Add nodes by double clicking while using the Edit Paths by Nodes Tool N

2. Drag a selection around all the nodes to select them.

3. Hit the "Make Selected Nodes Corner" button twice.

Now, if you want the lines totally separate continue as follows:

4. Hit the "Break Path at Selected Nodes" button

5. Do Path > Break apart