Hi
I am looking to get some steel square tubing bent using a kerf bending method by laser cutting out sections (see image for example)
I have a manufacturer that can do it but they need to know exactly how much to material to cut out. I have tried simulating this in soidworks to find out and using the flex tool I have managed to get the bend I require. The issue is the cut outs don't seem to be reacting correctly, I would of though a bend at this radius the cuts should touch at the ends but they don't (see image).
I need some help getting the material to simulate the bend correctly so I know how much material to cut out.
Thanks
Jack
Use a square sweep extrude and then add the sheet metal bends, which will give you the correct length, then after bending fillet and shell it and add the cuts per the picture.
However your cuts won't show up in the flat, but the final product will be ok