bottom plate helical staircase

[Tom_V]

Hi, 

I'm trying to draw a helical staircase with a bottom plate underneath the steps. Drawing it isn't a problem. I used a sweep with helical curve. Then I converted this part to a sheet metal. But then inventor doesn't want to unfold it. Does anyone know how I have to make a flat pattern from this one with the necessary bending lines? 

Example .ipt and photo in attachment

Thanks

[CCarreiras]

Hi!

In real world, this plate as to be deformed , not bended, therefore, inventor doesn't calculate this kind of deformation.

This is a plastic deformation, inventor can't manage this.

Did you find this reply helpful ? If so, use the    Accept as Solution or Kudos - Thank you!

[Tom_V]

I know, but do you have a easy solution to make a part similar to this wich is possible to make with bends? 

[mrattray]

Have you tried using a lofted flange?

[mrattray]

Never mind, lofted flange wont work. I'll dig up the solution I had to use last time I had this problem...
Fair warning though: it's not pretty.

[mrattray · Accepted solution]

Here's the thread to where I had a smilar application: http://forums.autodesk.com/t5/Inventor-General/Sheet-metal-development/m-p/3798033/highlight/true#M4...

Attached is the finished part that I sent to fabrication. It's a major PITA, but they were able to build it.

[Tom_V]

I think it will work if I work in a similar way. 

Thanks!!