Attempting to create a simple ladder rung. Since unfolding round shapes does not work, we've attempted to generate a flat pattern using a "square bar". Apparently we're missing something basic here in order to get a complete flat pattern. The attached file is quite basic and we could use some ideas from the group on how to get a full flat pattern. Tried looking for similar posts or discussions but found none.
Done completely in 2011 SP5.
You're trying to fool SolidWorks and no matter how much you try it will never work.
I attached a part started as sheetmetal.
Try to add a perpendicular flange to one of the legs, Solidworks balks.
With Test3 attachment, leg dimensions are significantly different (.25 & 1.00), it becomes more apparent as to what the problem is. You must bend across thickness not perpendicular to it.
SolidWorks cannot bend tubing and flatten.
I see that our attempts to make a flat pattern of that simple rung were not as easily as we had perceived them to be. I appreciate you guys taking some time and looking into making the part. I suppose it's time for an ER on this.
I think tube bending is going to be more than an ER ... you're talking core functionality.
That said, I know a lot of people would vote for it!!!
;/
Work let up long enough that I have put in an ER #1-2610816844 to test the waters and see if we can get this particular ability added. Perhaps with enough encouragment and votes from the members here it could be realized.
Thanks for the support all...
Cheers
<><
Hi Dean,
I just processed your ER and it turns out an SPR has already been filed for the ability to "unbend" These types of features.
if you would like to search and vote for it the information is: SPR# 533472, Summary: "Ability to bend and unbend OR flatten rod, wire, tubing, and other such objects."
This seems to be a popular one so if you would like to see this functionality go on and vote for it!
- Ethan
Ethan,
I appreciate the update on the status of the ER. I'm glad to know it's all being handled under one submission.
Yes, its a function that is sorely needed, and most certainly will be casting my vote in favor of..
Cheers
<><
Attached is a picture of your file with .50" x 1.00" stock. It shows why this will not work with sheet metal tools. You do not have constant material thickness through your bends. For two bends you have 1.00 stock thickness, the other two bends are .50 stock thickness.
Even if you change to 1 x 1 stock it fails because you are changing the neutral plane your part bends on.
Yes, in the real world you can do this, but in SolidWorks Sheet Metal rules this will not work.
You will need an approach such as what Eric demonstrates.
Cheers,
Anna
Looking into this situation again here. I cannot find anything in the SPR listings that show this has been addressed and implemented. Anyone else know if this situation is even being considered anymore? Still a considerable shortcoming, IMHO, but have not found a satisfactory resolution anywhere on the Dassault servers.
Hello Dean,
See attached file. Ladder rung with bend angles in two planes and parametric bend lines in flat block. Neutral line at 50% suitable for ladder rung design.
Elmar
Like this? I just did a convert to sheetmetal, using the highlighted face:
Then unfolded the first set of bends:
Then made a sketch on the face, extruded another shape:
Then converted to SM again:
And finally unsupressed that:
So, kind of complex, and there's likely a quicker way!