3 Replies Latest reply on Jun 4, 2012 2:50 PM by Rick McWilliams

Is it possible to project a multi-direction curved surface onto a flat plane to get an approximate flat pattern?

Dale Murley May 28, 2012 10:57 AM

Just trying to understand what my options are for getting flat pattern sizes of complex sheet metal parts. A friend uses Cadkey "Fastsurf" which according to him will flatten any surface. (I'm not sure how accurate that program is myself.)

Re: Is it possible to project a multi-direction curved surface onto a flat plane to get an approximate flat pattern?

Anna Wood May 28, 2012 11:23 AM (in response to Dale Murley)

Pictures would be helpful to see what you are trying to do.

Or an example file......

Cheers,

Anna
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Re: Is it possible to project a multi-direction curved surface onto a flat plane to get an approximate flat pattern?

Charles Culp May 29, 2012 5:14 PM (in response to Dale Murley)

Dale,

There are no good tools in SolidWorks to accomplish this. People who do this use other CAD tools and import them.
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Re: Is it possible to project a multi-direction curved surface onto a flat plane to get an approximate flat pattern?

Rick McWilliams Jun 4, 2012 2:50 PM (in response to Dale Murley)

The geometry works, GW3D, add-in has this function. visit cadcamcomponents.com and ask for a demo.

I have not used it yet. I use the GW3D conic surfaces with beautiful results.
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