Autodesk Inventor

[#1]

Hi,

I want to bend/fold this piece over a specific profile. Could somebody point me in a direction where to start? There are too many tools for bending a sheet metal and I just don´t know where to start. I searched the web and this forum but there are too many options. Also when I create the flat pattern, it should be precise with a difference max +/-5mm.
I thought I could use contour flange. Usualy it works. But only when it´s a simple rectangle. But not on this part.

If you know about some tutorials I would be very thankfull.

I work with Inventor 2011.

Thanks

[#2]

You should almost never Fold a part.

Use Contoured Flange.  Always model as finished part.

Attach your ipt file with sketch here.

Could you use some other color for the dimensions?  It is difficult to read those dimensions.

Your sketch should look like this (but with the dimensions - you won't need all of the dimensions since some are redundant). you only need open profile (no thickeness - Inventor will add the thickness).

[#3]

I´m sorry, I forgot to attach the ipt file. Here again.

Also one more question...how do I finish the part?

[#4]

I still haven´t figured it out. Problem is when I use contoured flange, the shape of the part won´t be the same. Also when I unfold the part, it´s 60mm longer.

[#5]

Make sure your sheet metal rules are set for the proper thickness.

[#6]

It´s set to 15mm. But why doesn´t the final part look like I have draw it? See the attachment so we understand eachother.

PS: I can´t open your file.

[#7 · Accepted solution]

I would guess that you made your cuts to the flat pattern.

All modifications to the part should be done on the model, not the flat pattern.

See tha attached part.

[#8]

You´re right. At first I draw the part and then I use contour flange. I thought when I do it after, the flat pattern won´t be the same. Thank you very much mpatchus, that helped me.

[#9]

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mpatchus wrote:

I would guess that you made your cuts to the flat pattern.

All modifications to the part should be done on the model, not the flat pattern.

See tha attached part.

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Did you attach the correct file?  That one doesn't look correct? (not like the image you posted - looks like the same file you originally posted)

[#10]

You are correct JD... thanks.. here is the correct file.