Whats the best way, if possible to convert this structural member into sheet metal so that it can be flattened to create a cutting template?
Thanks!
Whats the best way, if possible to convert this structural member into sheet metal so that it can be flattened to create a cutting template?
Thanks!
Thanks for that Logan . That method worked well, seems like a time consuming way of doing things though.
Is it possible to replicate what is done in this YouTube video?
I've had a go but cant seem to get it working, i'm guessing im trying to do something impossible but its worth a try . I've attached the part file for reference.
Thanks for the help.
Hi Tom
The most accurate method would be if you have SolidWorks Premium 2015 or 2016. You can use the Flatten surface feature. To do this you can create an arbitrarily small split line in the surface. In this example below I made a new sketch with 2 parallel lines 0.1mm apart to split the surface of the pipe (use split line feature in projection mode). You can then select ‘Flatten Surface’ define the surface and the edge to flatten from and you get your flat profile to export.
You can do a similar workflow with sheet metal by creating a copy of the body you wish to turn into sheet metal (I’d advise just doing each end separately) > Move/copy bodies, select no translation and just copy the body. Next create an arbitrarily small cut extrude feature to split the body. Again I used 0.1mm. Now you can use the sheet metal ‘Insert Bends’ feature select the cut edge as the edge to flatten and go ok. You’ll need to watch with this method what k-factor etc you use, as you will see in my screenshot it can differ significantly in length when compared to the surface flatten.